Sooke Harbour House

We stayed at the Sooke Harbour House in the Newman room for 1-night in late June ($422). We had a wonderful stay here in 2016 and, when we learned that it had reopened after a multi-year closure for renovations, decided to return to celebrate a significant birthday. From its dramatic location on a small hill overlooking Juan de Fuca Strait to the mountains of the Olympic Peninsula beyond, the low profile 3-floor building blends into its west coast setting, with nicely restored grounds dotted with driftwood, native themed sculptures, gardens and wandering deer. The hotel's public areas have been modernized with plenty of light coloured wood display cases and bookcases, mostly empty of the books and the knick-knacks that had previously provided much of the hotel's sense of quirky charm. Our room was huge, a 2-way fireplace separating a seating area to the left, a large soaker tub to the right, and fronted by windows with a set of glass doors in each area onto a full width deck with a table and chairs to one side and a large open space to the other (loungers would have been a nice addition) and, of course, gorgeous ocean views. Behind was the comfortable king bed, with a small coffee area with mini-refrigerator to the side. The general theme is west coast native, which seems to have replaced the previous funkily theme rooms. Overall, the renovations have modernized the rooms, removing the old, scuffed trim and interior doors; however, the patio doors were old and their screens torn in spots. We also missed nice touches from our precious stay like a set fire place (replaced by the option of ordering wood at an extra charge) and complementary welcoming port, truffles and cookies. We dined at the restaurant. The food is gourmet quality, but the portions were small, and we were surprised that bread was not complementary. We were also surprised that, despite having been asked by the booking agent if this was a special occasion, there was no happy birthday gift like a window table or a complementary dessert, as seems normal in most restaurants. Overall, the Sooke Harbour House provided luxury and comfort in a spectacular west coast setting. However, it has lost a lot of its quirky charm and does not provide some of the small touches that make a luxury hotel special. The value delivered does not meet what I expect of a hotel in this price range.

Do yourself (and someone you love) a favour. Go! Fantastic venue, scale, concept and execution. We just got back from a two-night visit—their Epicurean Package—which includes two night’s accommodations, breakfast both mornings and a five-course Chef’s menu dinner. Everything was over-the-top excellent. We last visited 20 years ago then watched through the difficulties the old favourite faces, cheering again when new ownership determined to bring it back. And it’s back! Fantastic staff dedicated to great hospitality. Restaurant meals to die for. And the tranquil surroundings enhancing the relaxed atmosphere of the resort. It couldn’t have been better. All good wishes to the new administration. We can’t wait to go back.

My experience with Sooke Harbour House was amazing! We booked the sunroom and patio space for our daughter’s twin baby shower and it was nothing short of fabulous! The event coordinator noted every detail and request to make the vision for our theme happen. The food was as delicious as it looked with a beautiful presentation. The views made for a stellar backdrop and we even had a pod of orca make a surprise appearance during gift opening. Such a magical moment for our guests, who were overwhelmingly impressed with everything.

This recently renovated resort on Vancouver Island is beautiful and tasteful. The grounds are impeccable. The view is amazing. The management and staff was courteous and smiling. The service was top rate. Our room with a fabulous view and everything in it met and exceeded our expectations. We loved our entire time there. We enjoyed this magical spot in the off-season, in March, which made it more affordable.

The Sooke Harbour House Restaurant is back! After our dinner last night, my friend who has a long history with this storied restaurant, pronounced our evening to be “sublime”. This culinary legend has been revived - and re-envisioned - with both food and decor designed with style and verve to suit the times. The seafood dishes we ordered - scallops and salmon tartare - were exquisitely prepared and presented like wee works of art. The extensive drink list included my favourite BC wine and a variety of fun mocktails. The restaurant knew the two of us were celebrating our birthdays and turned our poached pear confection into a plated birthday card complete with chocolate drawn chef. We lacked for nothing - especially time. We were shocked to realize that we’d been at our table for two and a half hours and never felt pressured to wrap it up. Our thanks to the skilful and hospitable team who treated us so well - Barb the gracious hostess, our knowledgeable server Eriko, and Maggie the talented artist/pastry chef. You should see the adorable firefighter cookies Maggie created for their Sooke Firefighter fundraiser. Think dalmatian, fire hydrant and firefighter hat - all too beautiful to eat - yet we will. Kudos to Joanne, the committed manager who is setting the tone and weaving the magic. This experience is not to be missed.